Nature nerd, albatross enthusiast, and coffee devotee – Brook Waimārama Sanctuary chief executive Chris McCormack shares his passions, from seabird obsessions to dreams of kākāpō calling across Nelson.
I am most passionate about...
I’m most passionate about wildlife conservation – and about inspiring everyone to play their part in protecting and preserving Aotearoa’s precious taonga. That passion comes to life every day at the Brook Waimārama Sanctuary, where I’m surrounded by a remarkable team and an army of devoted volunteers who pour their blood, sweat, and tears into restoring this haven. It’s deeply heartening to witness the community’s drive and engagement, proof that when we work together, nature truly thrives.
At the weekend you’ll find me...
Spending time with my wife and two children, whether it’s exploring nature, enjoying the local beaches, or simply having a relaxed day together.
I will never shut up about...
My passion for nature is contagious, once I get going, I could talk your ear off! I feel incredibly lucky to work alongside such a dedicated and passionate team at the Brook Waimārama Sanctuary.
I’m a real nerd about...
Funny enough, I’m a total nerd for albatrosses. Back in Dunedin, I got to work hands-on at the Royal Albatross Centre – everything from weighing fluffy chicks to helping with their meals. Honestly, I could go on for hours about these amazing birds and still not run out of things to say.
As a child, I was really into...
As a child, I loved exploring the outdoors and the landscapes of the Otago Peninsula in Dunedin – my playground, which sparked my excitement for being connected to nature.
I get my coffee fix from...
Sometimes wonder if I’m a full-blown coffee addict, but it’s hard to resist when there’s a gem like Wata just around the corner from my office. Their coffee is always spot-on, but it’s the warm smiles and genuinely friendly service that keep me coming back, every cup feels like a welcome.
The world would be a better place with more...
The world would be better with more moments to pause, breathe, and truly connect with nature, it’s the ultimate soul food. Something I truly take to heart when exploring the outdoors.
My simple pleasures are...
As a parent, I love taking my children on adventures to explore new areas and environments. My focus is on helping them connect with nature, encouraging them to embrace it, appreciate its beauty, and understand its importance. By fostering this connection, I hope they’ll grow up with a deeper sense of responsibility to care for the natural world.
The most spontaneous thing I’ve ever done is...
I was lucky enough to spend three weeks on the remote sub-Antarctic Auckland Islands, tagging New Zealand sea lions for the annual census. I’d never handled sea lions before, and working with one of the rarest in the world was an unforgettable experience.
The person who knows me best is...
Well of course this would be my beautiful wife, my rock, my greatest supporter, even though I’ve spent years perfecting the art of driving her up the wall.
I hope in ten years Nelson will...
See the growing magic that the Brook Waimārama Sanctuary brings to the city, with the growth of an abundant of birdlife that swells out of the Sanctuary and into the surrounding area. I look forward to witnessing further translocations, the likes of kaka, tieke and maybe one day kākāpō. So it is a very special and exciting time.
